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Key information

The dipper is a short-tailed, plump bird with a low, whirring flight. When perched on a rock it habitually bobs up and down and frequently cocks its tail. Its white throat and breast contrasts with its dark body plumage. It is remarkable in its method of walking into and under water in search of food.

What they eat:

Insect larvae and freshwater shrimps.

Measurements:

Length:

18cm

Wingspan:

25-30cm

Weight:

55-75g

Population:

UK breeding:

6,200-18,700 pairs

Identifying features:

This bird species has different identifying features depending on sex/age/season.

Dipper (adult)

Feather colour:
BlackBrownWhite

Leg colour:
BrownPink

Beak:
BlackShortMedium thickness

Natural habitats:
UplandWetland

Dipper (juvenile)

Feather colour:
BrownCream/buffGrey

Leg colour:
BrownPink

Beak:
BlackShortMedium thickness

Natural habitats:
UplandWetland

Where and when to see them

The dipper can be found along fast-flowing rivers, mainly in upland areas but also on lowland rivers in SW England. Look for tell-tale droppings on stones in the river.

* This map is intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.